I just listened to a great NPR interview with Terry Gross and author Charles Duhigg about Habits, how and why we form them. As well as how we can change them. Our habits are driven by ques and rewards. His book, The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business, has you look at the subconscious patterns of how and why we do certain things. Our automatic patterns and the routines run a good portion of our day. Terry Gross, shares about the common habit we all experience of driving on auto pilot. it certainly is common for me to reach a destination without any recollection of the drive.

If you want to develop habits that support you, and replace habits that hinder you, you must be conscious, and present. “If you believe you can change — if you make it a habit — the change becomes real,” the author concludes. “This is the real power of habit: the insight that your habits are what you choose them to be.”

I recommend this book as a support in understanding the mechanisms behind our automatic choices. Equipped with a better understanding, you have the tools to make and empower choices that support your well being.

Interestingly enough, I listened to this same interview. I found that the idea of habits being formed by cues and rewards.... and if we can find out what both are, we can change the bad habit while still getting the good reward that the habit provides. Good food for thought.

Tyson, Thanks for your comment. Yes, the good news is we can change our habits and receive our sought after reward. It requires, slowing down enough to determine the cues and rewards. And making the change a priority. I am working on creating the morning habit of meditation.